Kandi Burruss is Rewriting Broadway History with Othello

Kandi Burruss is no stranger to breaking barriers. A powerhouse in entertainment, she has dominated music, television, and business with undeniable force. But her journey as a Broadway producer isn’t just about success—it’s about transformation. With Othello, she’s not merely reviving a Shakespearean classic—she’s reshaping history.

“This is a dream come true,” Kandi Burruss tells me. “To bring Othello back to Broadway in such a groundbreaking way is beyond anything I could have imagined.”

Bringing Othello back to Broadway after 40 years wasn’t about nostalgia—it was about necessity. “The community wanted this,” Burruss says. “And I wanted to cement my mark as a producer.” While she credits Denzel Washington for the initial vision, she and her producing partner Brian Moreland saw the bigger picture. “When Denzel Washington said he wanted to return to Broadway, he knew exactly what he wanted. Our job was to make it happen.”

And happen it did. This once-in-a-generation production assembles an all-star creative team, led by Tony Award-winning director Kenny Leon. Denzel Washington commands the stage as Othello, the noble Moor of Venice and a battle-hardened general navigating a world that resents his brilliance. Opposite him, Jake Gyllenhaal steps into the role of Iago, the master manipulator who weaves a web of deceit. Molly Osborne takes on Desdemona, whose love for Othello becomes collateral damage in Iago’s relentless pursuit of power.

The strictly limited engagement began previews on Monday, February 24, with opening night on Sunday, March 23, at the Barrymore Theatre. By the time curtains rise for the final performance on June 8, Broadway will have witnessed something historic.

A Game-Changer for Broadway

The impact was immediate and undeniable. The production shattered records, grossing $2.8 million in a single week during previews—the highest-grossing play in Broadway history. But this Othello is more than just a financial success; it’s a bold reimagining of a centuries-old tragedy.

Set in the near future, in 2028, the production breathes fresh life into Shakespeare’s words. “That’s what makes it so exciting,” Burruss explains. “Even though they’re speaking Shakespeare, the world they inhabit feels like ours. It forces you to realize—this story still hits just as hard today.” Futuristic visual elements—modernized military uniforms, high-tech staging, and immersive lighting—create a world where ambition, betrayal, and racial tensions remain timeless.

From the very first table read, Burruss knew they had something special. “The energy in that room was electric,” she recalls. “To sit among some of the greatest actors of our time and witness their process—it was an experience I’ll never forget.” But beyond talent, what struck her most was the deep mutual respect shared by everyone involved. “We leaned into each other’s expertise, and that heightened the entire production. It wasn’t just about putting on a show—it was about creating something groundbreaking.”

Denzel’s Unexpected Side

A key part of that experience was working alongside Denzel Washington. Known for his commanding presence on screen and stage, Washington brings raw intensity to Othello. But behind the scenes, Burruss got to see another side of the Hollywood legend. “I don’t think people realize how hilarious Denzel is,” she says, laughing. “He had jokes for days. Every rehearsal, he had me cracking up. He brings that same energy into his work—he’s serious when it counts, but he also knows how to keep the room light.”

Elevating Black Excellence on Broadway

For Burruss, Broadway isn’t just about great performances—it’s about building a lasting legacy. “People assume big names will automatically fill seats, but that’s not true. Broadway thrives on investors, and we have to ensure they see returns. So I go hard when it comes to marketing.” She made sure Othello reached beyond traditional Broadway audiences. “I wasn’t just hitting the late-night talk shows. I was going on syndicated Black radio, making sure our community knew—this is for us, too. This show is for everybody.”

That commitment extends beyond Othello. From Thoughts of a Colored Man to The Piano Lesson and The Wiz, Burruss has consistently championed Black stories on stage. “We represent excellence,” she states. “And with every show, we push it even further. We’re not just participating in Broadway—we’re redefining it.”

With Othello, Kandi Burruss isn’t just producing a play—she’s proving that Broadway can evolve. “We’re showing that Broadway can be bold, inclusive, and powerful in ways people haven’t seen before.”

One thing is certain—history is being made, and Kandi Burruss is leading the charge.